How to Find a Yoga Instructor

Yoga is typically taught in group classes, although private instruction may be available. Most people find it easier to learn yoga in person from a qualified instructor, but you can also teach yourself from books or videotapes. Yoga has no special requirements for clothes or equipment, just bare feet.

It's recommended that, like meditation, yoga be practiced consistently both in terms of time of day and length of session. An average class is given weekly and lasts about an hour, though shorter sessions can be beneficial if adhered to regularly. You will be expected to practice your routine at home on a daily basis. As with all forms of stress management, consistency and frequency are crucial for obtaining the best results.

There are no standard certification or licensure requirements for yoga instructors. You will need to observe a yoga class before you sign up, looking for a style of teaching and a level of difficulty that appeals to you. Traditionally, the relationship between teacher and student was on a one-to-one basis and taken very seriously by both parties. Advanced yoga practitioners do not take their studies lightly, and at a minimum, a qualified yoga teacher should:

* Remain an active student and in regular contact with his or her own teacher